The journey through Acts 4-6 over the last few weeks has taught some great lessons. When Peter proclaimed Christ as the Savior before the group that had crucified Him, it taught a great lesson on courage. When sharing about Christ, we might face opposition but we can take courage and boldly take a stand because the Spirit is with us to fight the battles we face.

We are never alone so there is no need to be afraid or dismayed. The Spirit enables us just like with Peter and John who applied their faith in difficult circumstances by praying for boldness and standing up to the rulers, the elders, and the teachers of the law.

Studying over the last few weeks, another lesson learned was about teamwork. The believers pooled their resources and became of one heart and mind; working together in spreading the Good News of the Lord Jesus. We can do the same today but at an even greater rate because of the Internet. Thoughts and ideas can be shared with believers across the globe. There are inspiring videos, quotes, thoughts, and ideas that are easily shared daily.

Studying about Ananias and Sapphira, learned was the importance of integrity. They sold some property but held back a portion of the money. They lied and then died. Let us never hold back from God and make sure we are lined up with His life plan. It’s a plan that has proven to work when applied as designed.

Another lesson received was in gaining a sense of purpose. The Apostles had a sense of purpose which gave them resolve and boldness. The Holy Spirit gave them power and they obeyed the guidance of the Holy Spirit to boldly begin the movement we know today as the church.

Even though the early church experienced some growing pains, they gathered everyone together for the first church council and they discussed the situation. They showed true leadership by admitting their weaknesses but recognizing their strength of prayer and the Word of God. They agreed to appoint seven (The first Deacons) to take on the challenges.

The results were very positive and this same strategy can be applied today by our leaders as they pray constantly for God’s help in receiving the vision. There is no fear because God is always near to hold us up on His shoulders so we can see far in the distance.

As the journey now continues through Acts 7- 9 over the next few weeks, remember that God sees you as His child. You are unique with abilities that can give Him glory. Make a decision today follow the Holy Spirit and play your part in this world.

The aim is to plant more seeds of faith, hope, and love; anticipating the yielding of fruit that nourishes others. I invite you to join me over the next few weeks as I step ahead using the questions below to inspire thoughts and ideas. God will give us the upper hand by producing in us the heart of a champion.

Acts 7
How does Stephen identify with the council? Stephen gives a history lesson. How does history repeat itself in this passage? Are there situations that come up where you resist God’s purpose for you?

Acts 8:1-25
What causes the church to spread out to other regions? What do those who are scattered do? Why do you want the power of God in your life?

Acts 8:26-40
What instructions does Philip receive from the angel? How has God prepared the eunuch to hear the message of Christ? What does God do for the eunuch and for Philip? How does this encourage you to talk with someone today about Jesus?

Acts 9:1-31
What were the characteristics of Saul before and after Jesus confronted him? Why is Ananias hesitant about God’s command? Ask yourself, have I been fearful in obeying the Lord in the last few days?

Acts 9:32-43
Who heals the paralyzed man? What evidences that Peter raises Tabitha to life by the power of God? What is the result? Has anyone ever believed in the Lord after seeing the power of God in your life?

The above reading plan will be used as I share over the next few posts. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing! At this link: God’s Plan for Us, is a post about accepting God’s plan or reaffirming our “YES” for Christ.

When we accept Christ as Savior, the Holy Spirit is our companion and it’s exciting to think about what the future holds. With God, we can get through anything, we can patiently grind it out during difficulties or give Him credit when the impossible is made possible. Beyond that, we can celebrate because of the victory we will always have with Him.

Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.

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About Mark Shields

Mark volunteers as a member of the media ministry team at his church. A few years ago, he started an on-line Bible study guide called “This Day with God Devotional”. He uses this as a tool in his journey through the Bible. We live in a very busy world with busy schedules so this tool has helped him continue with daily Bible reading and study. Each of the studies are designed to help apply our faith in the work place, at school, or at home. Join him on this journey or check in every so often to read his thoughts.

2 Responses to Questions for Reflection for Study of Acts 7-9

Acts 9
“What were the characteristics of Saul before and after Jesus confronted him? ”

“Barnabas took him [Paul] and brought him to the apostles.”
]Acts 9:27]

Paul was never appointed an apostle, never recognized individually as an apostle , nor as “The Apostle to the Gentiles”. by anyone except himself. We should not believe or accept the self-promoting claims of Paul the self-appointed apostle, nor Muhammad the self-appointed prophet, regarding themselves, their supposed authority, and the supposed authority of their writings.

“Let every matter be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses”, as Jesus our Lord God and Savior reminded us from the Law of Moses that He came to fulfill, not abolish.